Review of Beetlejuice (1988) by Stefan G — 02 Nov 2014

I like to think of Beetlejuice as a way of showcasing Tim Burton's trademark visual style, but it's more than that. It's a very playful take on death and the afterlife, filled with zany humour and amazing special effects.

For some viewers, the story might seem confusing at first, but eventually, everything will be clear, and the film is long enough that there aren't really any pacing issues. The film has a pretty good cast with enjoyable performances from across the spectrum.

Beetlejuice himself is a joy of a character, with his devilish motions and overall chaotic personality. If being able to turn into a giant snake doesn't impress you, then I don't know what will.

Speaking of which, the visuals are amazing, and they compliment the zany, chaotic world in which the film is set. In this film, the special effects are used very creatively, bringing the unusual and often macabre set pieces to life.

Even better is that, thanks to the magic of the film's unique special effects, the characters can do things that many of today's movies won't do. Lastly, I enjoy that it isn't deathly serious, despite the themes that it takes on.

It's a fun approach for a fun film that isn't meant to be taken as something serious, very befitting of the time it was made in.